Early Years Activity

Outdoor play provides children with opportunities to use their energy as they run, climb, play, and explore. To support the body’s natural rhythm of activity and rest, the outdoor environment should also include quiet spaces where children can relax, recharge, reflect, and observe the natural world, enjoying peaceful moments that promote their emotional well-being and self-regulation.

Sensory sounds space learning aims

• Self-regulation and emotional well-being
• Sensory awareness
• Listening and attention
• Independent choice
• Time in a natural environment.

Resources you will need for this activity

• Running or trickling water (waterwall, fountain – created using a small container of water and solar fountain)
• Optional ideas: wind chimes, scented plants, e.g. lavender, mint or rosemary
• Add mirrors for quiet observation and reflection
• Listening tubes, funnels and natural sound makers
• Include loose parts – pebbles, leaves, feathers, pinecones, shells and smooth stones
• Tall grasses or plants that rustle in the breeze
• Soft seating, cushions, logs or tree stumps
• Blankets.

Sensory sounds space activity outline

• Talk to the children about planning a relaxing, peaceful space outdoors. Ask them for ideas about what would create a relaxing calming space. Show children some of your ideas and let them listen to the sounds of the wind chimes. Encourage them to contribute to how the area should be organised and where would be the best place for a quiet space
• Create your sheltered space together. Discuss how to arrange the resources so the sounds occur naturally through movement, wind and water
• Sit and listen, notice the sounds around the space
• Observe how children use the area, ensure the space remains calm and inviting.